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A recent systematic review of alcohol brief interventions looked specifically at whether the ‘setting, practitioner group and content matter?’. Based on data from 52 research trials, the results conclude that alcohol brief interventions ‘play a small but significant role in reducing alcohol consumption’ – but also identifies some differences based on where and by whom.

Perhaps the most significant finding is that IBA delivered by nurses were found to be most effective. This may be seen as promising given the reach of nurses and recognition of the role of IBA in healthcare settings. However the study cannot tell us how much this finding may be as a result of the way in which nurses deliver the intervention versus other factors such as nurses being seen as a credible person to offer alcohol advice.

As such it suggests nurses should be seen as a priority for the delivery of IBA, with efforts needed to address key barriers of time, worry about losing trust of the patient and inadequate training. It also emphasises previous research suggesting ‘a good relationship between the practitioner and the client’ as an important factor.

The findings also suggest the less intensive approach of ‘brief advice’ was found more effective than longer motivational interviewing interventions. However concerns over ‘brief advice’ being interpreted as simply feedback and a leaflet -rather than say 5-10 minutes structured advice – should be noted.

Another key finding was that when comparing settings, universities were found to have the greatest effect size alongside primary care – surprising given the limited level of attention to IBA in universities. Perhaps another unexpected findings was a lack of evidence for IBA in A&E settings. Whilst previous studies have found small effects, the review suggests that the specific time pressures within A&Es, lack of privacy and seriousness of injuries may be significant in hampering its value as a setting.

The authors rightly highlight limitations to the research and caution over drawing firm conclusions about role and settings. However it may be fair to summarise that it strengthens the case for shorter ‘brief advice’ to be delivered by nurses in particular. In addition, further focus on the potential of universities as a setting for delivery may also be an important area for development. Meanwhile the possibly limited benefits of IBA delivery in busy A&E settings may need to be weighed up against the level of effort required.